Satnav Wrong Turns to be Discussed at the Highest Level

Jan 9 2012

Most people who sign up for a car finance deal nowadays also throw a satellite navigation system into the deal.  These nifty little tools have become a near necessity for traversing our complex system of highways and byways.

Unfortunately satnav systems, as they are popularly called, have one weakness: they rely on data provided by local authorities for the most up-to-date information regarding new roads, road closures and road works.  If that data is not forthcoming, we end up with a situation where satnav systems send people into cul-de-sacs, down roads that no longer exist or straight into the thick of a traffic jam caused by road works.

These satnav problems are to be discussed at the highest level at a planned Government summit.  Norman Baker, the Local Transport Minister, will host the meeting.

Baker wants to put an end to the confusion caused when car and lorry drivers follow outdated instructions from their satellite navigation systems.

He also wants satnav manufacturers, mapping providers and highway authorities to cooperate more closely to make sure everything humanly possible is done to provide drivers with the correct information on their satnav systems.

According to the Department for Transport, with the present system it can take months for information to make its way from local authorities to satellite navigation systems.

Baker added “It is vital highway authorities, mapping companies and satnav manufacturers work more closely together to provide drivers with accurate, up-to-date information on traffic restrictions such as narrow roads or low bridges.”
 

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